If you're like me, you're always thinking about a diet, starting a diet, or - worst of all - going off your diet for just one little treat! I'm constantly trying to find ways to lose those last few pounds. So, I've gathered up the twelve best ways for you to get motivated to lose weight. Check out my tips below and remember that it's the small things you should do everyday that add up!
1. Take before pictures ...
Go ahead and take some really bad pictures of your "before" self. I mean, really bad. No smiles, no makeup, no styled hair... just you, a sports bra, and a pair of underwear. When you see those pictures stuck to your fridge, you'll be a lot less tempted to chow down on some ice cream or cake.
2. Get a support group ...
If you want to lose weight successfully and stay motivated long-term, you need backup. So, get some weight losing support behind you. There's lots of ways to do this... start an exercise group, begin a "biggest loser" competition at work, or join an online weight loss website. If you've got cheerleaders, you're less likely to quit the game!
3. Go public ...
In addition to getting support, you've got to go public with your goals. I don't mean buying a billboard in Times Square, but you need to share your weight loss goals with some people in your life who can hold you accountable. Why? Because it will be really embarrassing when you have to tell all these people you've given up! So, you'll be less likely to quit if you know you've got an audience.
4. Read the labels ...
When you're shopping, you've got to read the labels on what you buy. Don't just assume that a product screaming "Low Fat" on the front of the box is actually good for you... flip it over and look. Consider calories, fat, sugar, and sodium when choosing what you're going to eat. Also, check that portion size... sure, 3 grams of fat per serving is great, but if it is for a tiny portion, can you really stop eating after that small amount of food?

5. Set realistic goals ...
Don't think you're going to lose fifty pounds in two months... or even three or four. Setting high goals doesn't really help you. Instead, it just sets you up for frustration and failure. Plan to lose 2-3 pounds per week... that's healthy and safe for you body, and you'll really be burning fat, not just losing water or muscle. Read about losing weight realistically on WebMD.
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6. Get your priorities straight ...
Sure, your salad would taste amazing with a little extra dressing or some added toppings ... but would delaying your weight loss goals be worth that taste? You might not think one extra tablespoon of mayo on your hoagie makes that much difference, but these little things add up. Make up your mind that you're willing to miss these little extras for a while, and you'll meet your weight goals that much quicker.